A very compelling story from one of our beloved teens, Lorelei Shirey and her mother Michaelyn. The impact of The Rock is certainly tangible as you can see here. A big thank you to all of our staff and volunteers who make this place the wonderful environment that it truly is.

In this post, we will be focusing solely on Alice Cooper’s Solid Rock Foundation. You’ll notice the interview and the video sharing the story of Lorelei Boo Shirey, a teen attending classes at AC’s Solid Rock. They are both worth the watch. Alice remembers what it’s like to be ‘Eighteen’ and expresses his connection and love for teenagers – then explains why Solid Rock is an important piece of mentoring and loving them. It was great to hear from Alice and his mission for the ministry. However what stuck out most and was very impressive was the quote from Michaelyn Belford Shirey, Lorelei’s mother. She stated that (paraphrasing here), “we, as adults, remember our teenage years and how we felt…but that doesn’t mean we understand how today’s teens or our children feel. Even with all the love and support we can give on the outside, the state of their hearts on the inside may still be lost in darkness.” This was powerful and really encompassed what it seems the Alice Cooper Solid Rock folks are trying to help teens conquer and overcome – the DARKNESS.

Yesterday, ‘Fridays with Alice’ kicked off the 12 Days of ‘Alice Cooper’s Solid Rock’ Christmas. When this blog was first started, we knew Solid Rock and its mission would be a key part of the message conveyed by this project. A good part of Jesus’s ministry was focused on the lost and forgotten. Take a moment and step out of your adult life, think back to that time when you may have felt this way. Struggling to fit in, trying to hold firm to principles you knew were right but didn’t really flow with the waves of the world, etc. Maybe you still feel that way or maybe you are one of those teens reading this post. It doesn’t really matter – what does matter is all individuals deserve the respect and love of one another. We are COMMANDED to offer those things by our Lord (Mark 12:30-31). It’s not an option.

Alice mentions Solid Rock being a blueprint for other cities to follow. This is powerfully good word. There’s no motive behind his actions. His only motivation is to offer these teens a thriving environment free from the vitriol of this world. As a Christian, he feels it’s his responsibility to show that to them. He feels it’s his responsibility to show them grace. Offering them something they may not have access to without Solid Rock.

The ‘Fridays with Alice’ project has been an interesting journey. Judgment and slanderous things have been directed at Alice and our mission with this endeavor – some openly, others in private. However, focusing on the positives – let’s look at this from another viewpoint. It’s one thing to read and quote scripture to children and teens. It’s another thing to live out those scriptures before them. Some of you may remember a song written by the band Petra entitled, “Seen and Not Heard’ – focusing on our actions more than our speak. Stop and ask yourself this question, would you rather be seen living out His Word or shouting at others about what it is they should be doing or how they should be living? Seems living your own life and applying His Word to that is contagious. Look at how many want to join Alice’s cause (some Christians, some not) simply because he chooses to bear fruit and live out Christ’s message – planting seeds along the way. Think again about your life and the seeds that were planted, not by scripture, but by the actions of others. Others you knew were Christians because of their actions – not their meaningless banter about how others should be.

In conclusion, we are honored at the chance to sow into this ministry. One that lives out the call and mission of Christ! For us to LOVE OTHERS as ourselves, in turn LOVING GOD in the process. We hope you consider contributing to Alice’s mission and if you ever get the chance try and tour the Solid Rock facilities. See what they are doing there that works. We all have something we can give back. Money and resources are not always easy to come by – but time and purpose are FREE. Reach out and be that flicker of hope for a teen that is hurting. Show them the respect and love you wish you had been shown. Maybe you were one of those teens that found refuge in a place like Solid Rock. If so, use what you learned and how you were treated to pay that forward. Merry Christmas to you all and much love from those of us at ‘Fridays with Alice’.

NOTE: ’12 Days of ‘Alice Cooper’s Solid Rock’ Christmas’ is under way and will last from December 13th – 24th.

Ocean Floor Ministries, Audra J. Waters Ministries, and God Mode Activated have agreed to collectively match up to $1000 in donations to Solid Rock. We believe in the cause and the everlasting difference they are working to make in the lives of so many teens! To donate please visit our fundraiser at: https://www.facebook.com/donate/320825205188246/

We look forward to Christmas and the celebration of the most precious gift the Almighty ever gave us – his Son. Whatever small amount we can give back, will never be enough, and we give thanks for His Grace and Love. Merry Christmas!

For more information about Alice’s Solid Rock Foundation, you can click the links below and learn more about them:

Solid Rock is a Christian, 501(c)(3), Arizona nonprofit corporation. The Board of Directors is made up of Christian men and women dedicated to SRF’s purpose.

Started by Alice Cooper and friend Chuck Savale along with an eight member board of directors, incorporated November of 1995.

Solid Rock’s primary goal is to honor Christ by helping to meet the spiritual, economical, physical, and social needs of teenagers and children within our community.

To honor Christ by providing a facility geared toward teenagers that will help them to negotiate through the turbulent adolescent years. The relationally trained Christian staff, of men and women, and the different venues will create an atmosphere which will make it a place where they “hang out”. “The Rock,” the name of the building, will be designed to be a flexible needs structure centered around music. Programs will focus around a multi-use concert hall, coffee house (kitchen/snack bar for concert & other events), indoor basketball/floor hockey court, rock climbing walls, sound room and recording studio, computer/reading/study rooms, game room.

Their goal is to make an everlasting difference in the lives of the teenagers and children they are dedicated to helping.

Have you accepted Christ as your Savior?
If you would like to accept Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior, please pray the following prayer:
“God, I believe in you and your son Jesus Christ. I believe that Jesus died on the cross and rose from the grave to save me. Today, I invite Jesus into my heart to stay. I make you Lord over my life. Make me new. Wash me, Lord, and cleanse me. In Jesus Name, Amen”

If you have just prayed that prayer, we want to celebrate your new victory with you. Please contact us at prayers@oceanfloorministries.com so we can welcome you into the kingdom. We don’t want you to have to walk alone and we have some resources we would like the opportunity to share with you.

I was the boy who said all of my prayers Laid my clean face on the pillow Tucked in real tight, so safe and secure Through the night I heard a noise, it was probably nothing It pulled me right out of a dream If I knew it was you I’d have jumped out of bed with a scream I am the one who growls in your closet I am the one who lives under your bed

Get down, back where you started Get down, back into hell Your black soul, you know you’re black hearted I smell your sulfurous smell

All of my things that I play with in daylight
You turn into monsters at night
My toys were my friends
Until you taught them all how to bite
You showed me things little boys shouldn’t see
You scared me with visions of fire
You danced on my bed
With the flames on your head dancing higher
I am the one who growls in your closet
I am the one who lives under your bed

[Chorus]

I tell you right now
I don’t want your reptile embrace
I don’t want to follow you down to your place
I don’t want to be a child of disgrace
You can take your whiskey soaked, foaming
at the mouth, toilet talking, pea soup
Spewing, sweating blood demon breath out of my face

[Chorus]
I was the boy who said all of my prayers
Laid my clean face on the pillow
Tucked in real tight, so safe and secure
Through the night

In the first blog post, we discussed “Cleansed by Fire”, a powerful song of redemption and deliverance from the album entitled “The Last Temptation.” This week we look at “Lullaby”. Another song from that album which discusses one of the enemy’s age-old tools – Fear. The song finds Steven confronted by all sorts of evil staring him in the face and haunting him at night. The song has him lamenting for those evil creatures to leave him alone – cursing them back to Hell from which they came. Unfortunately, some children must deal with the evils their parents allow into the home. It’s up to us, as a body of believers, to teach all children the power they have through Christ, His blood, and His Spirit.

“Lullaby” is a powerful tune. Satan wants us to be fearful. Fearful of life, death, and everything in between. If he can keep us focused on fear, then we will never focus on Christ. Cooper takes an interesting approach by having Steven be such a young, innocent child. Scared of his room, the closet, etc. But it’s true, satan wants nothing more than to terrorize our hearts, minds, and souls from any stage of life he can grip. We must always be aware of his lies and know the truth. In 1 John 4:18, we find the Apostle John reminding us of God’s Love – a perfect love that casts out all fear. Fear is not from the Lord. His Love banishes it and replaces it with the purest forms of joy and love.

The Bible is full of narratives defining fear and leading us to Him as our refuge and strength. In fact, Psalms, on its own, is a candy store when it comes to verses showing us how to walk with Him without fear or threat from the enemy. Psalms 18 and 23 come to mind along with so many other verses guiding us to Him as our sanctuary from fear. Verses that teach us to place our lives into His care and how to walk with Him without anxiety or worry. The words and teachings in the Psalms written and spoken so methodically and beautifully make It sound so easy when you read them but it requires prayer, practice, and faith to apply the Word. As a child, we cry out for one of our parents for comfort and strength when the proverbial ‘boogeyman’ is after us. As adults, we tend to bury our fears deep within us building walls around them. Allowing them to separate us from joy, peace, and fellowship. When in reality, at any age those fears and anxieties need to be unwrapped – torn apart and laid before the Lord. Also though, they should be confessed to one another in Christ…so that they may be together as the body of our Lord cast out and buried – back to hell. Forgotten. No more. Fears, doubts, guilt, shame, etc. destroyed by the blood of our Lord.

This world can be and usually is pretty ugly. Murder, rape, famine, abuse, the list goes on and on. But there’s one thing absent from all of those heinous acts. Love. The Love of God knows not these things. God loves His children and wants the best for them. However, the opportunities are not always available for all of them to see His full radiance. That is where He has passed us the baton so to speak. He’s asked us to carry His banner into our neighborhoods, into our schools, into our places of work, etc. He’s called us to show and invite others into the fold. The world wants us to think we have no voice, that our days are numbered. That Christianity is a dying way of life. But the truth is, He’s alive and well – but the church is just now gaining back its voice. It’s time for us to once again proclaim Him as our source of strength and refuge. Not only for the sake of children – but for women and men alike. For we are all His children, at any and all stages of life.

We’ve been given the most awesome gift known to man. We’ve been bestowed the power, glory, and peace of the Holy Spirit. John 14:27 says, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do NOT let your hearts be troubled and do NOT be afraid.” Pretty awesome, right? So, once we’ve taken Christ as our Savior and invited Him, the Holy Spirit, to dwell within us. He bestows upon us the ability to leave fear behind – replacing it with the peace of Christ. However, pay close attention to those last lines – Christ requires us to rely on Him. He tells us “do NOT be troubled” and “do NOT be afraid”. “Doing” something requires action. We must desire and fully place our trust in the power of the Holy Spirit. As we study His Word, pray, and wait upon the Lord, we find Him showing up more and more. Often times in ways we don’t expect. However, it begins to become second nature for us to rely and trust Him. Replacing the anxieties of this world with His peace.

Let’s look at this song and these verses from two perspectives. One from a child’s perspective and the second from an adult’s perspective.

A Child’s Perspective. A child learns and mimics (for the most part) their surroundings. How were you raised? Did you come to know the faith at an early age? Later in life? Still searching? According to George Barna Research reports, 32% of professing Christians chose the faith between the ages of 5-12. That number drastically drops between the ages of 13-18 with only an additional 4% claiming Christ during the stages of adolescence. This means that close to 2/3 of the Christian population walked without Him during their most formidable years. Stop and think about that. Think about the lies, thievery, fear, doubt, shame, etc. the enemy has time to implant into those souls that have not yet come to know the peace and joy of our Lord. So, what can we do?

As a body of believers, it’s our job to find avenues for these children. Ways to show them His love and what life looks like with Him at the center. James 1:27 talks about the need for us to care for the widows and orphans of this world. Many might read this and think this only means to provide for their physical needs – shelter, food, etc. But what about their spiritual needs? We need to find ways to share with them, educate them, and help them to rely on Him fully. Giving them the tools needed to stand up to the enemy and not be absorbed with fear and the other lies he wants them to believe. Charities, organizations, and churches must stand firm in their faith – knowing that the freedoms of this country are still available for the church and Christians to share their faith with all who want to hear and know Him.

An Adult’s Perspective. As adults, we tend to believe the lies of this world more often than children. Children look upwards all the time. Up at the sink, up at the refrigerator, up at the television, up at their parents…up to their Creator. Children inherently know that there’s something greater than themselves. It’s only with time that they start to see the world is NOT so big, NOT so wonderful, and NOT so easy. Instead of looking upwards, humanity, with time and age, starts to look forward. At themselves in the mirror, at each other, at social media, at what they have and don’t have, etc. But what they fail to see is the lie. When we refuse to look up, it’s easy to believe that lie.

As believers, we have to apply the wisdom of His Word and know the difference between lies and truth. The truth is we all have a certain amount of ‘life’ garbage. Things in our past, our present, and things to come that will hinder and test our faith. The truth is God’s plan has us walking together. Sharing the garbage. Sharing our faith. Sharing His Love. The same Spirit that dwells within one Christian dwells also in another. In that spirit, the Holy Spirit, we are one. In John 17:11, Jesus called for believers to unite as one. This means the pains and joys of one believer should be shared with other believers. Allowing the Holy Spirit together in unity, to heal one another, rejoice with one another, and praising His name with one another. These are the things the enemy fears. The truth is satan wants us walking alone. Because alone he has power. Together with our Lord and with other believers he has none. It’s time for the body of Christ to turn the tables on the enemy. It’s his turn to walk in fear.

In conclusion, do you have someone to share with? Are you wrestling with something? Turning it over to the Lord will put you on the right track. But what God really wants is us working together through Him to help heal those hurts, right the wrongs, and bring glory to Him. The more we share the more we know that perfection is not possible, nor is it the goal. The goal is to have His name ringing out as Lord over all nations (Matt. 28:16-20). To do this we’ve been called to Love God, Love People, and live according to His Word (Matt. 22:36-40). Here’s to another week with Alice. Enjoy your weekend!

NOTE: There are many ways to get involved with others that need to know the love of our Lord. Check with your local churches, find ministries in your area (can usually be found through Google searches) to speak with about opportunities, and be open to prayer and guidance from the Spirit. Ask Him to help you find ways to make a difference, just don’t be shocked when that call is answered – and know it’s not always what you may have expected.

‘Fridays With Alice’ will soon be listing a number of different ministries across the nation that provide Christian-based outlets to both children and adults alike. What better place to start than with Alice’s very own Solid Rock Foundation.

For more information about Alice’s Solid Rock Foundation, you can click the links below and learn more about them:

Solid Rock is a Christian, 501(c)(3), Arizona nonprofit corporation. The Board of Directors is made up of Christian men and women dedicated to SRF’s purpose.

Started by Alice Cooper and friend Chuck Savale along with an eight member board of directors, incorporated November of 1995.

Solid Rock’s primary goal is to honor Christ by helping to meet the spiritual, economical, physical, and social needs of teenagers and children within our community.

To honor Christ by providing a facility geared toward teenagers that will help them to negotiate through the turbulent adolescent years. The relationally trained Christian staff, of men and women, and the different venues will create an atmosphere which will make it a place where they “hang out”. “The Rock,” the name of the building, will be designed to be a flexible needs structure centered around music. Programs will focus around a multi-use concert hall, coffee house (kitchen/snack bar for concert & other events), indoor basketball/floor hockey court, rock climbing walls, sound room and recording studio, computer/reading/study rooms, game room.

Their goal is to make an everlasting difference in the lives of the teenagers and children they are dedicated to helping.

Have you accepted Christ as your Savior?
If you would like to accept Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior, please pray the following prayer:
"God, I believe in you and your son Jesus Christ. I believe that Jesus died on the cross and rose from the grave to save me. Today, I invite Jesus into my heart to stay. I make you Lord over my life. Make me new. Wash me, Lord, and cleanse me. In Jesus Name, Amen"

If you have just prayed that prayer, we want to celebrate your new victory with you. Please contact us at prayers@oceanfloorministries.com so we can welcome you into the kingdom. We don't want you to have to walk alone and we have some resources we would like the opportunity to share with you.

Any chance of salvation
Any chance for me
Any chance of salvation for eternity

Any chance of salvation
Someone died for me
Washed in blood, he cared enough to pity me

Why do I care?
What’s wrong with me, my hate is gone?
Why do I care?

When did I change?
What’s different now, it’s very strange?
When did I change?

Any chance of salvation
Any chance for me
Any chance of salvation for eternity
Any chance of salvation
Someone died for me
Washed in blood, he cared enough to pity me

In my heart, in my soul
Some thing’s new, that’s very old
Like a pain that’s finally gone
I feel my heavy burden lifted

Any chance of salvation
Any chance for me
Any chance of salvation
Any chance of salvation
Any chance for me
Any chance of salvation for eternity

Salvation
Salvation
Salvation
Salvation

“Along Came A Spider” is another concept album, this time dealing with the life of a sociopath. A serial killer. Much like the characters in “Silence of the Lambs” and “Red Dragon”, this character believes he’s the manifestation of something wicked, foul, grotesque. In this case, he’s the ‘spider’. The album goes on to explain the inner workings of his mind. Tracks like “Vengeance is Mine”, “Catch Me If You Can”, and “Wrapped in Silk” show the torment of his sickness and the pain he endured from his past – reeking havoc on those in his present. The album takes a pleasant but very unexpected turn at the end.

“Salvation” is the last track on the album. It brings the character (later revealed as Steven – a common pawn in Cooper’s stories) to an unanticipated place. I believe the song was meant to be a dialogue between him and God. In some ways, it reminds me of the conversation between the thief and Christ as they both hung on their crosses. In Luke 23:40-43, all the thief had to do was accept the fact that Christ was who he said he was. Asking for Christ to remember him, Jesus replies, “Truly I telly you, today you will be with me in paradise.” Absolutely incredible that this man, a criminal, simply asks and Jesus without hesitation is like, “Sure, you’re in!”

Scripture Reference:
“If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.” (Romans 10:9-10)

A similar story leads us to arguably, the greatest missionary in the Bible. In Acts 7:54-60, we find Stephen, one of seven leaders in the early church, in a pretty tough situation. He’s basically just called out everyone in the temple blaming them for the death of Christ and rejecting the Holy Spirit. This didn’t go over very well. In return, he’s dragged out of the city and stoned to death. The verses do not name any of the parties involved except Saul. While he did not participate in the murder of Stephen, he witnessed and supported it. In fact, Saul launched a full scale assault on Christians after the death of Stephen. He literally vowed to destroy Christianity through the persecution of Christians and, if need be, their deaths.

In Acts 9, Saul has gone to the high priest seeking permission to travel abroad, capturing men and women who profess to follow Christ, and imprisoning them as he traveled. With their permission, he set out for Damascus – ready to end Christianity once and for all. However on the road, he encounters Christ in full radiance.

Blinded by this encounter Saul follows the instructions Christ gives him and is later healed. As a result of his encounter, Saul is saved. Jesus met him on the road to destruction and brought him full on to the road of recovery. The deeds he had done and was doing were not enough to keep Christ from calling, using, and freeing Saul from his sins. His conversion serves as a sign to all walks of life (both Jew and Gentile) that Christ’s blood covers any that follow his commands to place Him as Lord of their life.

Saul’s conversion turned the Book of Acts and the history of the church in a completely new direction. Saul’s transformation not only proved that an enemy to the faith can become a leader – but also a newfound purpose to bring Christ to all who walk on the earth (Jew and Gentile alike). It’s truly amazing what the redemptive power of our Lord looks like.

Another story, one that better fits Alice’s concept album, is the story of Jeffrey Dahmer. We all know the heinous crimes this man committed while on this earth, yet many may not know that he accepted the invitation of salvation through Christ and died as a brethren of the faith. Roy Ratcliff, the pastor that performed Dahmer’s baptism and met with him weekly, openly discussed his experiences with Dahmer and brought about thought provoking insight to the power of salvation and the Blood of Christ.

His book entitled, “Dark Journey Deep Grace: Jeffrey Dahmer’s Story of Faith” discusses the nature of his discussions with the serial killer along with the questions and push back he’s received about the sincerity of Dahmer. Questions like, “Was and could Jeff really be saved? Were his sins taken away? Is he a Christian believer? Did he repent of his sins?” Ratcliff’s response to these questions is jaw dropping to say the least. He replies by asking, did these Christians really believe “the blood of Christ shed on the cross was somehow too weak, too thin, too anemic to cover” the sins of Jeffrey Dahmer? Do we place similar restrictions on Christ’s blood with regard to some folks in our own lives? People that have not committed anywhere near the same deeds as Dahmer, yet we deem them outside the scope of salvation and/or the power of His precious blood.

In conclusion, these stories are full of hope and purpose, yet they are also a bit unsettling. I must admit as a red-blooded Conservative American, I struggle with wanting to forgive and forget the actions of a man like Dahmer or even a modern-day Saul/Paul. There’s a part of me that believes a .45 to his temple would be legit and warranted. But as I continue to walk this journey with my Lord, I pray He continues to chip away at the man that sees a man like Dahmer as an irreconcilable soul and replace that man with one that sees Dahmer as a damaged soul with the very same need for “Salvation” from our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23) yet “by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God.” (Ephesians 2:8)

Other verses about Salvation: Hebrews 7:25, Philippians 3:4-11

Have you accepted Christ as your Savior?
If you would like to accept Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior, please pray the following prayer:
"God, I believe in you and your son Jesus Christ. I believe that Jesus died on the cross and rose from the grave to save me. Today, I invite Jesus into my heart to stay. I make you Lord over my life. Make me new. Wash me, Lord, and cleanse me. In Jesus Name, Amen"

If you have just prayed that prayer, we want to celebrate your new victory with you. Please contact us at prayers@oceanfloorministries.com so we can welcome you into the kingdom. We don't want you to have to walk alone and we have some resources we would like the opportunity to share with you.

In the beginning I was just a shadow
In the beginning I was alone
In the beginning I was blind, living in a world devoid of light
In the beginning there was only night

I was shattered, left in pieces
And I felt so cold inside
Then I called you from the darkness
Where I hide

I am made of you
I am made of you
I am made of you
I am made of you

In the beginning you were revelation
A river of salvation and now I believe

All I wanted, all I needed
Was someone to rescue me
I was drowning, I was dying
Now I’m free

I am made of you
I am made of you
I am made of you
I am made of you

Here I am now, I can stand now
Cause your love has made me strong
And forever you’re the singer
I’m the song

I am made of you
I am made of you
I am made of you
I am made of you

I am made of you
I am made of you
I am made of you
I am made of you

‘Welcome 2 My Nightmare‘ was released in 2011, some 30+ years after the original ‘Nightmare’ album was released. Once again, this ‘Nightmare’ is a concept album, like the first. Once again, Steven’s nightmares take us on a journey. This time ones that depict Hell and some tongue-in-cheek examples of the horrible things that can be found there. An interesting approach finds Kesha playing the part of Satan.

“I Am Made of You” is a masterpiece. It’s the first song on the album and opens with the same eerie piano riff from the song ‘Steven’ (found on the original ‘Welcome to My Nightmare’ album) but then it quickly turns into a symphonic rock ballad. One that finds the singer working through three parts of his despair – exasperation, expectation, and ending with exaltation. It may very well be the greatest song in his vast catalog of music. This post will look at this song from a few different scenarios. While the song can be interpreted many different ways, we will focus mostly on David and the Psalms during this post. However, as you listen to the song, it definitely applies elsewhere in scripture. The stories of Adam, Abraham, Moses, etc. apply. This song at some point defines everyone’s walk with Him. Those tough pills life sends us to swallow. The ones that push our faith the hardest. The places where real growth take place.

In Psalms 13, David’s words very closely relate to the first few lines of ‘I Am Made of You’. He’s found pleading with God using the words ‘how long’ four times within the first two verses. It’s obvious he is trapped in some sort of darkness and despair – even physically spending time in the cave of Adullam (1 Samuel 21:15-22:2). However, he remains vigilant, faithful, and holds on to his trust in the Lord. It seems easiest to give up and lose hope in those dark times, yet doing so only leaves you consumed by despair and ruin. Perseverance and faithful intention allow God to move. But His timing is not the same as ours. Hold on and wait for His breakthrough to happen. Looking back on His plan is often easier than looking forward. Seeing where He’s brought you is usually much easier than learning or discovering where He wants to take you (or how and when He answers that next prayer or supplies you with the next steps).

The next few stanzas after the chorus lead to “…revelation, a river of salvation and now…” belief. Even while standing in faith, it’s often difficult to see the way out. The picture is fuzzy yet the evidence of His workings are right there in plain sight. Our faith is intact, but logic and reasoning demand the evidence be blatantly obvious. As humans, we often allow our surroundings, current events, and other intangible factors dictate our moods and mindsets. Instead, we should strive to work diligently at giving Him praise in all things and at all times – no matter the circumstances. Cling to David’s words in Psalms 13:5, trusting in the unfailing love of our Creator – ultimately, leading to a heart full of joy founded on His saving grace. As the song exclaims, revelation and salvation pulls you from despair into the arms of freedom. Freedom in your walk, freedom in Christ to do, give, and be who he wants you to (peacefully) be. We must learn to recite the words of scripture, fortifying our hearts, minds, and souls. Knowing that the declarations made in those words are solid foundations for our lives.

By the end of the song, the singer has come to realize that through God’s Love and us being His creation we find our strength. Knowing that He is the composer, we are merely His songs. That’s fascinating. Much like David writes in Psalms 139:13-14, “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” We are created in the image of God, His character has been interwoven into us all. Worthlessness and self-loathing come straight from the enemy’s playbook – lying in wait to feed you lies and deceit about who you are. Truth is, the Holy Spirit is ready and willing to work within you. Knowing this, we should have as much respect for ourselves as our Creator has for us.

In conclusion, stop and think about who you are and what you were created to be. It’s really quite simple to be who and what we are created to be. Each person’s mold is completely different, yet the same Creator placed within each of us His own ‘witness marks’ – hints and indentations of Himself – placed there for us to pull love, strength and understanding from when it seems none of those things can be found. Be who He’s created you to be and pull strength from that – knowing that His Love is sufficient when nothing this world has to offer is.

“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. – Ephesians 2:10

Have you accepted Christ as your Savior?
If you would like to accept Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior, please pray the following prayer:
"God, I believe in you and your son Jesus Christ. I believe that Jesus died on the cross and rose from the grave to save me. Today, I invite Jesus into my heart to stay. I make you Lord over my life. Make me new. Wash me, Lord, and cleanse me. In Jesus Name, Amen"

If you have just prayed that prayer, we want to celebrate your new victory with you. Please contact us at prayers@oceanfloorministries.com so we can welcome you into the kingdom. We don't want you to have to walk alone and we have some resources we would like the opportunity to share with you.

They come here every night
I see them
Don’t you see them
Hmm that’s odd isn’t it
I’m so tired
I’m winding down
You’ll have to go now
It’s bedtime

Steven

‘Hey Stoopid‘ was released in 1991. This album featured a number of different artists from that time period including Slash (from Guns N’ Roses), Steve Vai, Ozzy Osbourne, Joe Satriani, and many more. It is the follow-up album to ‘Trash’ and keeps that same tone and feel in many ways – it’s an ‘in your face’ sort of album.

‘Wind-Up Toy’ is the final track on the album and includes Joe Satriani on guitar. The song is the first time the character, Steven, reemerges after more than 15 years. The song definitely deals with the psychotic rants of someone that has been scarred, tortured, and/or abused in some form or fashion. There’s so many ways to look at the lyrics. Is Steven still a child – explaining how he feels? Is he an adult trapped in a mental state that forces him to relive his past – keeping him from being a responsible adult? Is he still stuck in the ‘Nightmare’? Is he in a mental ward, set apart from society and rotting away from the fears, rejections, and despair of his past? It seems all of these scenarios could apply. Either way he’s a troubled individual. And with any and all mental illness, there’s a certain amount of spiritual demise that comes with it. Satan wants nothing more than to lie to us and have us believe all the negative thoughts and feelings that accompany such illnesses.

In Romans 12:12, we find Paul pleading with the people. Telling them to, “Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.” Paul is telling them to be intentional and diligent in their faith. Don’t allow the uncontrollable variables in life to affect your heart, soul, and/or mind. The power and magnitude of our Lord is so much GREATER than our trials and tribulations. Seek Him as those things come and go – seek Him ALWAYS! Guard your mind against the slippery slope of depression and despair that parallels the thoughts we have when we focus on our surroundings and the events of this world. Vigilance in your faith and prayer is the key to warding off the enemy and keeping him at bay.

If you are someone that is struggling with mental health issues and thoughts, seek our Lord through prayer and the Word but also consult and pursue the counsel of a professional and others as well. Do your best not to allow the lies of the enemy and society to define and embody who you are. It’s a battle but one that you can win! The truth is – you are His, you are His creation, you belong. Our Heavenly Father wants nothing more than to be in communion with you through His Son and Spirit. It may be an uphill climb to get back on track, but it’s never impossible when faith and His Word are applied (Luke 1:37). When looking for a counselor, be careful. Often times medication might be needed, but applying and speaking His Word over the issue must not be ignored. Shots, meds, and shock therapy will never replace the fullness of God’s Love and acceptance. Let the words of Jonah 2:5-7 echo in your mind. That whatever darkness is surrounding you, He will bring you out of it. When life is fainting away, remember Him and send Him your prayers.

This leads to the final aspect of this post. How should we treat friends, family, and others dealing with some form of mental illness. Right off the bat, let’s settle something. It’s true sinful nature can be a cause of such illness, but it in NO WAY is the only cause. Love is the answer to helping those struggling with affliction. No amount of condemnation or chastisement is going to help another human being. Plus, we are not called to do so. The song speaks of Steven’s parents, the pastor, doctors, etc. all contributing to his state of mind. If instead he was approached by them with love and acceptance, would this maybe help change his morale? Speaking love, reading uplifting scripture, and praying with and for them is the proper approach. Hebrews 4:12 reminds us that the word of God is quick, powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword – it is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

In conclusion, it seems Alice has been labeled the ‘Santa Claus’ of Halloween. Therefore, it seems fitting that we focus today on this song. Alice deems this song the #1 scariest song in a list of others he’s ranked. It is pretty frightening to think about the things that go through the mind of folks struggling with mental illness. However, we should instead rebuke that fear and instead allow the TRUTH of His word to permeate into those that are suffering and our own lives as well. Stand firm on Isaiah 41:10, knowing that fear is not from God – instead draw strength from Him. Love and encourage each other through all of life’s trials and tribulations. Leaving you with this verse, know that His peace is pure and passes all understanding.

“Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.“ – 2 Corinthians 4:16-17

Have you accepted Christ as your Savior?
If you would like to accept Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior, please pray the following prayer:
"God, I believe in you and your son Jesus Christ. I believe that Jesus died on the cross and rose from the grave to save me. Today, I invite Jesus into my heart to stay. I make you Lord over my life. Make me new. Wash me, Lord, and cleanse me. In Jesus Name, Amen"

If you have just prayed that prayer, we want to celebrate your new victory with you. Please contact us at prayers@oceanfloorministries.com so we can welcome you into the kingdom. We don't want you to have to walk alone and we have some resources we would like the opportunity to share with you.

I never kicked a dog, a child or my wife
I never looked at pornography
I swear it on my holy saint mother’s life
But somehow she’s down here with me

The road to hell is littered with nice guys with good intentions
But once you’re there, you’re there, it’s much too late
I can cry and scream it’s just not fair
To leave me here like you don’t care
There must be some mistake up there in heaven

Now it’s much too late
My time has passed away
All my plans and dreams have all ended
Now it’s much too late
To try and plead my case
And I don’t know the God I’ve offended
It’s too late

I never stole a thing, a toy or a kiss
My conscience is a clear as can be
And when I was a teen, all the sex that I missed
Was an abstinence blessing to me

The road to hell is littered with nice guys with good intentions
But once you’re there, you’re there, it’s much too late
I can cry and scream it’s just not fair
To leave me here like you don’t care
There must be some mistake up there in heaven

Now it’s much too late
My time has passed away
All my plans and dreams have all ended
Now it’s much too late
To try and plead my case
And I don’t know the God I’ve offended
It’s too late

“Dragontown” is Cooper’s 22nd studio album – released in 2001. The album is a continuation of the themes found on the previous album, Brutal Planet. The nature of this world is really no different than it’s ever been in the past, but this album deals with the current events and state of affairs that have led us to an over-hyped hate and disdain for each other. Tracks like “Dragontown”, “Sex, Death, and Money”, “Sister Sara”, and “I Just Wanna Be God” lay the groundwork for where such lifestyles and behaviors can lead us.

“It’s Much Too Late” is a track that I think speaks volumes to our society – both Christian and non-Christian. It’s about a pious man that lives a life ‘littered’ with good intentions. While abstaining from the evils and vile of this world, he still misses the boat. He still never seeks out the love and relationship of His Creator. Instead of working so hard at being good, he should have laid his life in the hands of God asking for His guidance and accepting the call to Salvation. Instead, he chose a life of self-righteousness lived through deeds and works. Ultimately (and most likely accidentally), eternally offending the Almighty – condemned to Hell.

Hell. This is a topic that makes most Christians (including myself) uncomfortable. I don’t like the thought of anyone suffering here on earth or especially on an eternal level. Honestly, I don’t even like the thought of some terrorist or ruthless dictator going there. Sure, there’s times when we all might think, “Just wait – they’re gonna get theirs one day’. But the truth is, the Holy Spirit dwelling within every believer wants nothing more than to know each and every individual intimately on this earth – from the Billy Graham’s of this world to the Osama Bin Laden’s. We, as Christians, (should) want nothing more than to see every person on this globe in relationship with their Creator through His Son, Jesus Christ.

The song makes three key points that should be addressed individually. This post will focus on good intentions, offending God, and no second chances.

Good Intentions. Ephesians 2:8-9 sums up exactly what this song is stating. There’s no amount or measure of good works possible to save us from an eternal demise. Only through the salvation and grace found through Christ given to us through faith and belief in Him can one be received – it is a gift from God not some sort of penance or pension plan for a life lived abstaining from some special list of vices. Think about what it’s like to receive a gift from someone. Do you make plans to repay them for that gift or do you willingly accept it with gratitude, praise, and/or joy? God’s gift to humanity is salvation through His Son and no amount of performance, activity or special ability can repay Him for that. His Grace does not have to be earned, only accepted.

Offending God. In Romans 8, the Word clearly states and discusses the offensive nature of sin. However, when studying and reading those scriptures fully – knowing them on a deeper level. We find that what is truly offensive to God is not knowing, seeking, or accepting Him. When we accept Christ (God’s gift), we don’t just become sinless beings – it’s through the acceptance, repentance, and walk with Him that our sin is taken from us. Washed away. Cleansed from the inside out. What offends God is not receiving His gift – not agreeing with Him that we need it. There’s this notion that He is some sort of cruel father or ruler that wants to control and manipulate us. Ready, willing, wanting to punish us all. It’s a lie. A myth. A deception. Being prideful – unwilling to believe the truth – but instead choosing the lie is what offends Him. We can’t walk this life alone, we need Him.

No Second Chances. This is the tough, dirty part of it all. There are no do-overs after this life. We get one shot at this. Romans 3:10 clearly states that, “we are NOT righteous, not a single one of us.” It is only our Savior’s righteousness that makes us suffice before the Almighty. He covers us. He stands before us at the throne, exclaiming we are with Him. The ones that choose Him are represented by Him. The Bible is clear about eternity and death. In Hebrews 9:27, it lays out the facts – we die once, and after that face judgement. Therefore, it’s crucial we stand and know that He is a God of now, not tomorrow, but today! 2 Corinthians 6:2 is clear about that. “Now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.”

Concluding this post, where do you stand? Have you come to grips with the fact that you will never be righteous? You will never be able to work your way into Heaven. Seems grim and dreadful, doesn’t it? It’s not! Your Father loves you! He loves you so much that He sent His ONE and ONLY son to earth. Fully God and fully man. Submitting to His will. In turn, covering us. Our sin. Our shame. Making us whole. Giving us righteousness through Him before the Father. His gift is ours to claim. Receive. Accept. The time is now. The time is today! Choose to walk with Him and know Him – before ‘it’s much too late.’

Have you accepted Christ as your Savior?
If you would like to accept Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior, please pray the following prayer:
"God, I believe in you and your son Jesus Christ. I believe that Jesus died on the cross and rose from the grave to save me. Today, I invite Jesus into my heart to stay. I make you Lord over my life. Make me new. Wash me, Lord, and cleanse me. In Jesus Name, Amen"

If you have just prayed that prayer, we want to celebrate your new victory with you. Please contact us at prayers@oceanfloorministries.com so we can welcome you into the kingdom. We don't want you to have to walk alone and we have some resources we would like the opportunity to share with you.